Dennis Wayne Vandiver

Born May 28, 1952 in West Plains, Missouri to Charles Andrew and Edith Marion (Robertson) Vandiver, he married Marianna "Mari" Lynn Spurlock on June 22, 1974 in East Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are one daughter, Megan (Dr. Dan) Lovell of Morton; three grandchildren, Hudson Lovell, Hadley Lovell and Hollis Lovell; one sister, Velma (Dave) McDaniel of Norcross, Georgia; one brother, Karl Vandiver of Everett, Washington; two brothers-in-law, Jim (Carol) Spurlock of Peoria and Randy Spurlock of Marquette Heights one sister-in-law, Paula (Dan) Reid of Ottumwa, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant twin sons, John and Jason Vandiver; one sister, Elsie Jane Vandiver and one infant brother, Frank Arthur Vandiver.

A United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War, he was a recipient of the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

Dennis worked for Caterpillar, Inc. as a machinist for 39 years and retired in 2011. He was a retired member of UAW Local 974.

He served on the East Peoria Elementary School District 86 Board of Education from 2011-2022 and was President the last 3 years. He also served as a volunteer for IESA State Track and Field Meets and Baseball Tournaments. He was a longtime coach for track and softball at Peoria Christian School.

Dennis loved Jesus and was a faithful member of Summit Point Church in East Peoria, where he participated in small group ministry and served as a greeter.

Dennis was family centered, adored his grandkids and loved going to watch them in their various sporting events and activities. He also enjoyed beach vacations each winter. He was an avid reader and enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and friends.

His funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2026 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Dan Reid, his brother-in-law, will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Military rites will be conducted following the service at the funeral home. Cremation will be accorded following the services with private inurnment in Fondulac Township Cemetery in East Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East Peoria District 86 Foundation, 601 Taylor Street, East Peoria, IL 61611.

To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com